Marion County is committed to serving exceptional students with an appropriate individual education program in the least restrictive environment. Special Education procedures have a firm underpinning in a team approach. This team actively involves parents, administrators, general educators and special educators. Procedural safeguards are implemented to assure the protection of parent and student rights.

A multi-disciplinary evaluation team consisting of the parents and professionals determines each student’s present level of performance. Program and placement recommendations are made in accordance with county, state and federal mandates. Related services such as speech and language, vocation assessment, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and transportation are provided as required for students to benefit from special education.

Categories of exceptionalities, which are served within the county, include; autism, behavior disorders, blind and partially sighted, deaf-blindness, deaf and hard of hearing, gifted, mentally impaired, orthopedic impaired, other health impaired, preschool needs, specific learning disabilities, speech-language impairments, and traumatic brain injury.

Program for Students with Visual Impairments (Including those with additional disabilities)

The Vision Program of the Marion County School System is part of the Special Education Department. The function is to provide specialized services for students who qualify for the program because of a diagnosed visual impairment, which impacts his/her education. Services are available for children 3-21 years of age who are enrolled in Marion County Schools. Usually teaching is done within the student's home school, however exceptions are made based on the IEP. Specialized Curriculum can include:

1. Communication (braille, typing, handwriting, etc.)
2. Orientation and Mobility
3. Independent Living Skills
4. Recreation
5. Socialization
6. Technology
7. Career Education
8. Visual Efficiency

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   Special Education Transition Sites - This is a portal designed to provide you with a wonderful listing of valuable transition sites.

   Transition Portal

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   Assistive Technologies for Students with Disabilities

   Assistive Portal